Rental Agreements

To protect both you and your renters, owners should use a , straightforward rental agreement that is ultimately signed by both owner and renter. Every owner should have at least 3 rental agreements. One, for short term renters, people staying only a night or two. One, for long term renters such as families renting for a week or longer. And another for seasonal rentals. Which would include anyone renting for longer that a two months. Include this info:

• 1. Agreed upon dates, including arrival and departure times.
• 2. Never surprise your renters with hidden charges! Total price, showing your rate plus any additional items such as cleaning fees, taxes, non-refundable deposits, fees
  for additional persons, etc.
• 3. Fully describe your cancellation policy.
• 4. Specify reservation and security deposits.
• 5. List extra policies for children, pets, smoking, etc.
• 6. Let the potential renter know if maintenance workers may come in for routine tasks while they occupy the property.

Remember to charge your seasonal tenant for utilities. I find the best way to handle utilities during a seasonal rental is to have the renter's put as many of them in their name possible. Also don't overlook the cost of firewood. Supplying the renter with the local firewood delivery companies number is also a great way to go. But make sure your renter know what you will be supplying and what they need to take care of.